A CHARITY believes that everyone should be able to make sweet music, even if they can’t use traditional instruments for any reason. Now it’s appealing for help to make its dream a reality.
Berkshire Maestros, which helps youngsters get to grips with tune making, is raising funds to install Soundbeam equipment in its music centres and in schools.
Once in place, it allows students with disabilities to enjoy the chance to create their own tunes. It uses ultrasonic movement to detect movements and translates this into sounds, a bit like a giant theremin.
It has a series of sound sets that allow the exploration of different genres such as blues and classical, and allows children to create their own improvised soundscapes.
The Maestros say that Soundbeam has other benefits, including letting the youngsters take part in music making lessons for the National Curriculum, and also develop their motor skills.
A spokesperson for Soundbeam said: “We are delighted that Berkshire Maestros are fundraising to purchase a Soundbeam system for the county.
“To date we have supplied more than 100 Soundbeam systems across the UK so that they can better support disabled learners.
“As a small business based in Bristol and established in 1988 – we have developed Soundbeam technology to facilitate musical expression for performers of all ages and abilities helping schools, colleges, hospices, hospitals and arts organisations to give their students and service users a meaningful and exciting way to perform and create music.”
And Jamie Baird, Berkshire Maestros Partnerships and Inclusion Development Manager, felt the Soundbeam was a wonderful musical instrument.
“The technology it uses is so impressive and sparks so many ideas for how it can be used within our schools and music centres,” he said.
“I particularly love the freedom of expression it gives the player and can’t wait to see how our young people communicate and interact through Soundbeam.”
To support the appeal, log on to: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/soundbeamforberkshire
